Muga Reserva 2022

"The 2022 Reserva, sold as Crianza in Spain, has more tertiary notes than other people's Gran Reserva, even though it has a very classical profile. It is mostly Tempranillo with some Garnacha Tinta, Mazuelo and Graciano from vineyards no more than 25 kilometers from the winery in Haro, cropped from a warm and dry year. Here, what they did was wait; it rained a little, the plants unblocked and they had the patience to wait for the grapes to ripen fully. So, the grapes were in a very healthy state, and winemaker Isaac Muga likes to ferment the grapes destemmed and lightly crushed in oak vats with indigenous yeasts and then mature the wine in 90% French and 10% American oak barrels for 22 months, with racking every eight to nine months. It has good ripeness, 14% alcohol, a pH of 3.59 and 5.45 grams of acidity, and it's medium- to full bodied, concentrated but sleek and polished, with fine-grained tannins, very supple flavors and a chalky finish. It still has some toasty notes in the finish that should integrate with a little bit more time. 945,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in January 2025. They are very happy with 2022, and they even produced Prado Enea and a tiny quantity of Aro. Drink: 2026-2036."

"[14.5%] This 2022 is labelled as a Reserva on export markets, but as a Crianza in Spain and is definitely worthy of the former classification. Combining Tempranillo, 20% Garnacha and 2.5% each of Mazuelo and Graciano, it’s a serious, well-structured assemblage that overdelivers at the price, with toasty French and 20% American oak, intense blackberry, vanilla and liquorice flavours and a mineral core. 2027-2035."

"The 2022 Reserva was aged 24 months in casks made in Muga’s own cooperage (80% French oak, 20% American) and blends Tempranillo, Garnacha, Mazuelo and Graciano. On the nose, fine oak tones of cedar, sandalwood and subtle spice frame red and black fruit with balsamic hints. The palate is dry and juicy, with fine, reactive tannins that lend a slightly compact structure. Fruit and gentle grip echo through the finish. Drink: 2026-2040."